Bread Pudding Recipe

If you’ve ever searched for the ultimate comfort dessert, Bread Pudding is what you’re after. Imagine cubes of soft, custardy bread, soaked in a sweet, cinnamon-scented cream, with just the right amount of crisp on top and a dreamy, velvety sauce poured over each warm slice. This is a timeless, super-cozy treat that’s perfect for using up leftover bread and creating new memories at your table. Whether you serve it plain or go all-out with toppings, Bread Pudding’s magic is in its beautiful simplicity and the way it brings everyone together, just like Grandma used to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Bread Pudding recipe leans on simple, pantry-ready ingredients that work together in perfect harmony, each bringing its own little spark to the final dish. Using fresh dairy, flavorful spices, and the right bread can make a world of difference—here’s the why behind every pick!

• Stale bread: The real backbone! Slightly stale brioche or challah absorbs the custard beautifully, leading to that tender, creamy center.
• Whole milk: Rich and luscious, whole milk forms the custard base—don’t skimp for lighter milk, full-fat simply tastes better here.
• Granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness without overpowering the cinnamon and vanilla notes.
• Unsalted butter: Adds much-needed richness and a hint of buttery flavor throughout both the pudding and the sauce.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice—just a teaspoon makes the aroma irresistible and warms every bite.
• Salt: A tiny bit makes every other flavor shine, don’t skip it!
• Large eggs: Eggs help set the custard and bind the pudding together into that iconic texture.
• Vanilla extract: Essential for a warm, bakery-fresh aroma and deeper flavor in both pudding and sauce.
• Heavy cream: Enriches the sauce, lending it silkiness and that decadent, creamy finish.
• Packed light brown sugar: Perfect for a gentle caramel note in the sauce, with a flavor deeper than white sugar alone.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to just the right luxurious consistency for pouring.
• Optional: extra salt, water or spirits for the sauce: Customize the sauce—add a pinch of salt for depth, or a splash of bourbon or rum for grown-up flair!

How to Make Bread Pudding

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F—this ensures the pudding bakes up evenly with a satisfyingly golden top. Meanwhile, butter your 8-inch square baking dish. This not only prevents sticking but adds another layer of flavor.

Step 2: Make the Custard Base

In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, granulated sugar, 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, ground cinnamon, and salt. Place the pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the butter has melted completely. Take it off the heat and let the mixture cool slightly—about 10 minutes is perfect.

Step 3: Assemble the Bread Pudding

While your milk mixture is cooling, arrange your bite-size bread cubes in the buttered baking dish. Try to distribute them evenly. Once the milk mixture is just warm (not hot), whisk in the eggs one at a time, then stir in a tablespoon of vanilla extract. Pour this custard mixture all over the bread, making sure every piece gets soaked. If you see some dry pieces on top, gently press them down to absorb the delicious liquid. For best results, let the mix rest 20 to 30 minutes before baking, so the bread really drinks it all up.

Step 4: Bake the Pudding

Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The Bread Pudding is ready when it’s golden and puffed on top, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. It should still have that lovely custard texture inside—don’t overbake.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

While your Bread Pudding is in the oven, get started on the sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Set over medium heat, stirring until everything is melted and the mixture is steaming. Dissolve 2 tablespoons cornstarch in 1/4 cup water (or use bourbon or rum if you like things boozy!). Stir the slurry into the hot milk mixture and cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce turns thick and silky. Finally, remove from the heat and stir in another tablespoon of vanilla and an optional pinch of salt.

Step 6: Serve Warm

As soon as your Bread Pudding comes out of the oven, drizzle some of that dreamy sauce over the top and dish up while it’s still warm. Pour extra sauce on the side for those who love an extra-luscious finish!

How to Serve Bread Pudding

Garnishes

Even though Bread Pudding is already plenty indulgent, a few finishing touches can send it into wow territory! Try a dusting of powdered sugar for a snow-like finish, a scatter of toasted nuts for crunch, or a handful of fresh berries for color and brightness. If you’re feeling fancy, add a dollop of softly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream right on top.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with something tart or fresh. Think tangy lemon curd, a simple fruit salad, or even a zippy berry compote. For brunch, serve with coffee or a bold black tea to balance the pudding’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

To really make your Bread Pudding stand out, try baking it in individual ramekins for personal portions or using a loaf pan and slicing it like cake. You can also add a swirl of chocolate sauce or salted caramel, or layer in raisins or chocolate chips before baking for a twist on tradition. For a special touch at gatherings, set up a topping bar with sauces, fruits, and nuts so everyone can customize their own slice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Bread Pudding can be stored in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and the texture stays wonderfully moist, making it just as delicious the next day. Remember to keep any sauce in a separate airtight container so the pudding doesn’t get too soggy.

Freezing

Bread Pudding freezes surprisingly well! Simply let it cool completely, then wrap individual portions (or the whole pan) tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re craving a sweet treat, you can thaw slices overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from the freezer.

Reheating

To bring leftover Bread Pudding back to its just-baked best, reheat covered in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. If you’re short on time, microwaving individual pieces for 30–60 seconds works too, but the oven method keeps the top crisp. Warm the sauce separately and pour it on just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use any type of bread for Bread Pudding?

Absolutely! While brioche and challah produce especially rich and tender results, you can use French bread, sandwich bread, or even croissants. The key is making sure the bread is slightly stale, so it absorbs the custard without getting mushy.

Why does my Bread Pudding sometimes turn out soggy?

Sogginess usually means there was too much custard or not enough baking time. Let the bread soak up the custard for 20 to 30 minutes before baking, and make sure to bake until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean but the pudding is still moist.

Can I make Bread Pudding without dairy?

You can! Substitute the milk and cream with unsweetened almond, oat, or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free butter substitute. The texture may vary slightly, but you’ll still have a cozy, satisfying dessert.

Is Bread Pudding best served hot or cold?

While it’s traditionally served warm—fresh out of the oven with sauce poured on top—Bread Pudding is also delicious cold or at room temperature. It’s entirely up to your preference!

Can I add extras like fruit or chocolate?

Definitely! Raisins, dried cherries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts can be sprinkled between bread layers before pouring the custard. These add-ins give your Bread Pudding a personalized touch and extra bursts of flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about pulling a bubbling Bread Pudding out of the oven and gathering around the table to enjoy it with the people you love. This classic dessert is a testament to how a few humble ingredients can become something truly special. So, give it a try—you might just create a family favorite for years to come!

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